Skip to main content

Can Pelvic Organ Prolapse be Prevented?

As many as one in five women in the US experience disorders related to problems with the pelvic floor, a system of muscle and tissue that supports the organs of the pelvis. Though one of the least common of these disorders, pelvic floor prolapse can have a serious impact on your quality of life.

Preventing prolapse before it happens would be ideal, but there are often combinations of factors that contribute to the condition, and in some cases, the reasons for prolapse simply aren’t known. Though there’s little you can do about genetic contributors, there are some lifestyle changes that may make prolapse less likely.

Symptoms of pelvic floor prolapse

A common sign of prolapse is a constant feeling of pressure that may be uncomfortable and even painful. This discomfort can originate in your pelvis or felt in the lower back. You may also experience:

Pelvic floor prolapse risk factors

Your chances of experiencing prolapse increase with age. Pelvic support tissue suffers the effects of time, and loss of youthful tone may contribute to this condition. Other risk factors include:

Preventing pelvic floor prolapse

Though you can’t control all the contributors to pelvic floor prolapse, you can reduce your risk by making lifestyle adjustments to limit the impact of common risk factors.

Maintain a healthy weight

Obesity adds physical strain to the pelvic floor, as well as introducing other health issues that may aggravate risk factors

Stop smoking

Nicotine affects blood flow, essential for your body’s self-maintenance. Smokers are more likely to develop chronic coughs, adding additional pressure on the pelvic floor

General and specific exercise

Staying active is key for many aspects of your health, such as good bowel function. Kegel exercises, in particular, may help strengthen muscles of the pelvic floor.

Diet adjustments

High fiber and plenty of water are keys to good health and bowel regularity. Avoiding constipation removes a prolapse risk factor. Treat constipation as a health issue, and avoid straining during bowel movements.

Attention to physical strain

Though being active is, in general, helpful for prevention, repetitive motion that puts strain on the pelvic area may contribute to pelvic floor issues. Using proper lifting techniques that rely on your legs also reduces pelvic strain.

Every woman’s risk of developing pelvic floor prolapse is unique. For an examination and assessment of your condition, contact Dr. A. Michael Coppa at either office location by phone, or use the convenient online booking tool. Dr. Coppa can help you determine the best way to preserve your pelvic health before problems begin.




You Might Also Enjoy...

How Does Stress Affect Fertility?

How Does Stress Affect Fertility?

Stress is part of life. But chronic stress can have a serious impact on your health, and that includes your fertility. If you’re struggling to get pregnant, stress could be part of the problem. Here’s what you need to know.
 When to Choose a Non-Hormonal Birth Control Method

When to Choose a Non-Hormonal Birth Control Method

Hormonal birth control (like the pill) is common, but there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to contraception. It’s time to learn about non-hormonal birth control and how you might benefit from choosing a hormone-free option.
 5 Vaginal Changes To Discuss with Your Gynecologist

 5 Vaginal Changes To Discuss with Your Gynecologist

Proactive care is key to maintaining your health. Along with routine exams, it’s important to recognize when something’s not right and bring up those concerns with your gynecologist. Here are a few common vaginal changes you shouldn’t ignore.
 What Factors Make a Pregnancy High Risk?

What Factors Make a Pregnancy High Risk?

All pregnancies come with some risk, but certain factors could make complications more likely. Learn about a few of the most common factors for a high-risk pregnancy, and find out how prenatal care helps protect your and your baby’s health.
Is An Ovarian Cyst Cause for Concern?

Is An Ovarian Cyst Cause for Concern?

Ovarian cysts are common, and most of the time, they don’t cause problems. Even so, you should learn to recognize when an ovarian cyst may be cause for concern. Learn the signs and start getting the care you need.

Here's How to Know if You're in Menopause

Menopause happens to every woman of a certain age. But the symptoms — and when they appear — vary widely from woman to woman, and it’s not always easy to identify the cause. Here’s how to know if your symptoms mean you’re in menopause.